Italian rock singer Drupi, whose career began in the 1960s, is currently touring the Czech Republic, a country he describes as holding a special place in his heart. The tour, which began January 17th in Brno, celebrates a decades-long connection with Czech audiences and a shared musical history with the late Hana Zagorová and Karel Gott [[2]]. Drupi’s arrival has already generated buzz, including a welcoming reception featuring Czech television personality Leoš Mareš and a unique assist from local celebrity Agáta Hanychová.
Italian singer Drupi arrived in Prague this week for a tour that holds a special place in his heart. The artist, whose real name is Giampiero Anelli, has expressed his fondness not only for the city but for the entire country, describing it as a place full of emotion.
He received a warm welcome at the airport from Czech television personality Leoš Mareš and, surprisingly, Agáta Hanychová, who lent her Italian language skills as a translator. Her assistance earned a sweet reward – a serenade directly into her ear. A gesture Hanychová’s mother, Veronika Žilková, a lifelong fan of Drupi, playfully noted.
A Lasting Connection
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Drupi shared his joy at returning to the Czech Republic, citing both the enthusiastic audiences and cherished memories connected to the late Hana Zagorová and the iconic Karel Gott. The Czech Republic has long been a welcoming destination for international artists, fostering a vibrant music scene.
Accompanying Drupi on his trip is his wife, Dorina, who also serves as his backing vocalist. In an interview with Televizní noviny, he described her as not only the most beautiful woman in the world but the center of his universe.
Remembering Hanička Písnička
Shortly after arriving, Drupi appeared as a guest on the 10,000th episode of Evropa 2’s Ranní show, alongside Leoš Mareš. During the live broadcast, he fondly remembered Hana Zagorová, describing her as a close friend and a brilliant singer, and expressed his regret at not having the chance to say goodbye before her passing. He admitted to mourning her loss.
He also spoke about Karel Gott, who, like Hanička Písnička, covered several of his songs, bringing them to a wider Czech audience. When show host Katka Říhová invited Drupi to perform their famous duet “Setkání” with her, he readily agreed. Despite a few forgotten lyrics, the impromptu performance offered a taste of what fans can expect at his upcoming concerts.
“Setkání”: A Timeless Duet
The story of “Setkání” began in 1979 for the film Zájezd, and initially, Drupi wasn’t the first choice to sing it. He was contractually prohibited from performing songs by other composers, but director Ján Roháč insisted – and ultimately prevailed. The song became an instant hit, with the delicate vocals of Hana Zagorová and Drupi’s distinctive rasp creating a combination that has endured for decades.
Foto: Profimedia.cz
Italian singer Drupi and Hana Zagorová in 1999. This is how we remember them. Last year, however, Drupi shaved off his thick mane for filming and has kept his hair short ever since.Photo: Profimedia.cz
Tour Dates Announced
The Drupi Tour 2026 kicks off on Saturday, January 17, in Brno, followed by two concerts in Prague, a stop in Ostrava, and culminating in Hradec Králové on January 31. The show will feature his biggest hits, beloved by Czech fans.
Drupi promises energetic performances that will feel more like a reunion with the audience than a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Fans can look forward to hearing “Piccola e fragile,” “Vado via,” “Sereno,” and, of course, “Setkání,” the song that continues to resonate with his Czech fanbase.
